Arts & Entertainment

Avast, Me Hearties! It's International Talk Like a Pirate Day

Yo, ho, ho, and a bottle of rum!

By Christine Huard

Ahoy, me pretties! Get ready to swash your buckles. Today we speak with the soul of sea-going scalawags long past. Aye, matey—it’s International Talk Like a Pirate Day.

The celebration began as a gag between two guys that caught on with humor columnist Dave Barry. The Pirate Guys, who go by Ol' Chumbucket and Cap'n Slappy, have even made a YouTube video tutorial on pirate basics known as the "Five A's."

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International Talk Like a Pirate Day is now an internet phenomenon. Facebook users can set their Account Settings for Language to "English (Pirate)" turning the home page into Home Port, addressing friends as Cap'n, and more.

Here's a quick guide to leaving land lubber's language behind and embracing the swashbuckling brogue of Blackbeard. Terms come from the web site Talk Like a Pirate, which offers lingo, advice, and games for those who embrace the pirate lifestyle. There are also some (slightly naughty) pickup lines for both scalawags and lady pirates to use while they're out slogging grog.

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Get ready to hit the high seas and …

TALK LIKE A PIRATE

  • Ahoy!—How to say hello
  • Arrr!—How to say yes, I agree, this is great beer, you're so funny, life is good
  • Avast!—How to say stand and give attention, check it out
  • Aye!—How to say you're right
  • Aye aye!—How to say I'm on it

IMPORTANT NOUNS

  • Me beauty—The best way for a scalawag to address a lady
  • Bilge rat—The best way for a buccaneer to address his pirate buddies
  • Grog—An alcoholic drink usually made with rum, though it's OK to call beer grog

Further studies:


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